In a video statement, Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan said 20% of the domestic flights would resume operations starting tomorrow (Saturday) following the final decision taken by the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) on Thursday.
The five major airports include Jinnah International Airport, Allama Iqbal International Airport, Islamabad International Airport (IIAP), Quetta International Airport, and Bacha Khan International Airport.
Sarwar said social distancing would be followed based on the seats in the airplane and capacity to fill 50% of the seats would be maintained. "Passengers will be provided the opportunity to travel safely," he added.
The move came "in view of the difficulties being faced by passengers in travelling between major cities in Pakistan", the PCAA said on Twitter.
The minister, it added, noted that the "Aviation Division has prepared very strict SOPs ensuring disinfection, social distancing and safety for the airline crew and passengers".
According to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Serene Air will operate flights in the mornings and afternoons. The flight operation will be resumed partially.
It stated that 68 flights will operate from Jinnah International Airport, 32 from Allama Iqbal International Airport, 32 from Islamabad International Airport, eight from Quetta International Airport and four from Bacha Khan International Airport.
However, the CAA maintained that all flights will be operated following proper SOPs and guidelines set by the government.
Earlier, suspension of international flight ban was extended till May 31, as the total number of coronavirus cases crossed 37,000 in the country.
In a tweet, the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) announced the government's decision to extend the suspension of flight operations till May end.
